Reinforcing the sovereign functions of the Nigerien State to restore a peaceful society - AJUSEN
For several years, Niger has had to deal with a multiplicity of issues threatening the security of its territory: terrorist infiltration from neighbouring countries, the development of organized criminal networks, and increased migration flows. The increase in threats and attacks from violent groups operating from neighbouring countries throughout the country is becoming increasingly significant. Despite undeniable efforts, it has become difficult for the government to provide an adequate response to all these challenges. The development of organized crime and human trafficking throughout the Sahel-Saharan zone is forcing the Nigerian government to strengthen internal security and improve the functioning of its judicial system.
Building the basis of a peaceful and stable society
The “Support for Justice, Security and Border Management in Niger” (AJUSEN) programme thus aims to restore and consolidate the role of the Nigerien State, more specifically in its sovereign functions. In line with the general lines of the European Union’s strategy for the region, in particular that of “Peace, justice and effective institutions” aimed at restoring the foundation of a stable peaceful society, the project supports the deployment of sovereign administrations, in particular to strengthen internal security and justice. This is a €90 million budget support (2016-2020) and technical assistance programme.
- A financial contribution of €50 million from Italy and €30 million from the European Union to the Niger Treasury account, subject to the fulfilment of certain general conditions and specific indicators (stable macroeconomic framework, proper implementation of the national “justice and internal security” policy, sound public financial management and transparency).
- Additional support of €10 million from France to strengthen Niger’s judicial capacities. It takes the form of technical assistance, information and awareness-raising actions, training, implemented by AFD and CIVIPOL, the French Ministry of the Interior’s advisory and service organisation.
In the field, the project has several components. First, it increases the government’s financial capacity and develops its capacities, particularly for public financial management and security, with a special focus on the fight against corruption. It also strengthens the role of the judiciary in combating organised crime more effectively and in improving the protection of victims of trafficking. Finally, it strengthens the capacities of the various security forces with a civilian mandate such as the National Guard, the Gendarmerie, the Police and Customs, and to better control borders, it supports cross-border collaboration with Mali and Burkina Faso.
In June 2020, several results were achieved:
- Eight regional command posts were created and put into operation. Their purpose is to ensure on-the-ground coordination for security forces (Agadez, Diffa, Dosso, Maradi, Tahoua, Tillabéry, Zinder, and Niamey).
- Eight new border police posts were put into operation.
- Construction/renovation was started up for two permanent posts for the domestic security forces, along the Libyan border.
- Renovation work on the Dirkou airstrip was started.
- The coordination committees of the criminal chain at the Niamey Regional Court have made it possible to find practical solutions to the dysfunctions encountered between the public prosecutor and the prison.
- Logistical and IT equipment from the National Agency to Combat Trafficking in Persons/Illegal Trafficking in Migrants and the Bureau d’Entraide Pénale Internationale (BEPI) were provided.
- The legal framework of the BEPI and the definition of its organizational chart and job profiles have been consolidated.
Photo credit : AFD
Niger
Fields of action
